Archbishop Peter Loy Chong of Fiji launched a book on the history of the Society in Fiji by Columban, Fr Frank Hoare, at the Archbishop Petero Mataca Hall at St Pius X Parish Raiwaqa on Sunday 28 January 2018.
Titled ‘The Turning Wheel’ the book traces the relatively brief history of the Columban Fathers in Fiji from 1952 – 2017.
It takes a storytelling approach and is full of anecdotes, pictures and stories of the early Columban Missionaries in Fiji.
The book launch was attended by priests and religious from the Greater Suva Area as well as Columban seminarians, lay missionaries and lay companions of the Columbans.
The Columban Vicar General, Fr Arturo Aguilar, who is based in Hong Kong, was also present.
Fr Aguilar commented on how the talanoa approach taken on by Fr Frank in his book reflects for the greater part the bigger story of the Columban Fathers all over the world.
Archbishop Peter Loy applauded the work of the Columban Fathers in the archdiocese and praised Fr Frank for his work which also helps us to understand the history of the local Church in the post-World War II period up to the present time.
The careful analysis by Fr Frank on contemporary issues in mission is also a major highlight of this work.
The stories of the early Columbans and the struggles they encountered in a culture so vastly different from their own and their attempts to preach the gospel among a people who showed them kindness and wonderful hospitality is heart-warming.
The book can be purchased from the Columban Central House in Nasese in Fiji for $10.00 and also from the Religious Bookstore at Nicolas House in Fiji.
